New Case of Ebola Confirmed in Sierra Leone

The death is said to have occurred “earlier this week”, according to the BBC, with tests confirming that it was due to Ebola. Officials are said to be seeking those who came into contact with the victim to contain the spread of the disease.

Sierra Leone was first declared Ebola-free on 7th November. Now, the clock resets: it will have to go 42 days — twice the incubation period of Ebola — without any new cases of the disease being confirmed in order to regain the status.

Yesterday, the World Health Organization announced West Africa Ebola-free, which is now no longer the case. It also warned that small flare-ups, such as this, remain incredibly likely. [BCC]